Prachi Mahurkar:
In a world where ecological degradation is becoming increasingly visible, there are individuals who quietly dedicate their lives to healing the planet. One such inspiring personality is Prachi Mahurkar, an ecologist and a passionate practitioner of ecological restoration based in Nagpur.
As the driving force behind Punarnava Ecological Services and Eco-Design Solutions, Prachi has been actively working towards restoring degraded landscapes and promoting sustainable living practices. Her consultancy focuses on rejuvenating habitats, strengthening ecological corridors, and enhancing both floral and faunal diversity across private and public lands. The firm also advocates eco-friendly construction techniques, ensuring that development aligns harmoniously with nature.
Prachi’s contributions extend far beyond consultancy. She has been an active member of the Seed Saver Group, playing a key role in organizing Beejotsav, an annual event in Nagpur that connects farmers with consumers while promoting indigenous seeds and sustainable agriculture.
Her previous role as a Tree Committee Member at the Nagpur Municipal Corporation highlights her commitment to urban biodiversity. She has also represented ecological initiatives at the prestigious Women of India Organic Festival, organized by the Ministry of Women and Child Development across major metro cities.
Her technical expertise is evident in her work with organizations like WWF India, where she contributed to assessing floral and faunal diversity and preparing detailed tree census reports. Currently, she is engaged in large-scale ecological restoration projects spanning over 2000 acres in Vidarbha and has successfully completed watershed development across 1000 hectares in Umred district.
Vihang Farm: A Living Model of Agroecology
Recently, I had the privilege of visiting Vihang Farm, Prachi’s 8-acre ecological haven in Maragsur village, Katol tehsil, Nagpur. The visit was part of a three-month course on Agroecology for Food Systems Transformation, bringing together participants from across India—from Kashmir to Kanyakumari.
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From the moment we arrived, it felt less like a workshop and more like coming home.
The farm is a brilliant example of land design based on natural topography. Trenches constructed across slopes efficiently harvest rainwater, prevent soil erosion, and significantly improve groundwater recharge. The impact is visible; water levels in the well have risen, demonstrating the success of these simple yet powerful interventions.
Surrounded by lush forests, the farm is rich in biodiversity. The symphony of birds and the diversity of native tree species create an immersive natural experience. Prachi’s deep knowledge of forest ecology was evident as she guided us through early morning forest walks, helping us identify various tree and bird species.
Prachi’s work in seed conservation is truly commendable. She has preserved a wide variety of native forest seeds and traditional landraces, including millets. Watching her explain the diversity and importance of these seeds was both enlightening and inspiring. Many participants even took seeds home, carrying forward her mission of conservation.
The experience at the farm was deeply rooted in sustainability. We harvested fresh vegetables directly from the farm, and they were cooked on the same day, completely organic, free from chemicals, and full of life. It was a reminder of what real food should taste like.
The structures at Vihang Farm beautifully reflect eco-conscious design. Built using mud and locally available materials, the houses are naturally ventilated and aesthetically pleasing. The use of second-hand materials for doors and windows showcases how sustainability and creativity can go hand in hand.
Behind the seamless experience was the constant support of Amit Mahurkar, Prachi’s husband, who ensured that everything, from logistics to meals, was perfectly managed. His contribution played a crucial role in making the event smooth and memorable.
The two days spent at Vihang Farm were not just educational; they were transformative. They reminded us of the deep connection between humans and nature, a connection that is often lost in modern lifestyles.
Prachi Mahurkar’s work is not just about restoring land, it is about restoring relationships: between people, soil, water, seeds, and biodiversity.
Her efforts stand as a powerful example of how ecological restoration, when combined with passion and knowledge, can create thriving ecosystems and inspire communities.
If you ever get an opportunity to visit Vihang Farm, don’t miss it. It is more than just a place; it is an experience that reconnects you with nature and with yourself.
Because the closer we are to nature, the more beautiful our world becomes.
Author: Tapas Chandra Roy, Block Agriculture Officer, DA&FE, Govt. of Odisha. Documenting and disseminating success stories of farmers to inspire millions of farmers across India.
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Nice article Tapas g. U have articulated wee.